The alternative protein sector is experiencing a renaissance, with the European food and beverage industry taking notice, as evidenced by a remarkable 960% surge in alternative protein patents over the past decade.
According to data released by the Good Food Institute (GFI), the total number of patents published by European organisations has surpassed 5,000, encompassing a wide array of developments from alternative meats to alternative creams and ice creams. Switzerland leads the pack with 1,232 patents, followed by the Netherlands (884), Germany (596), the UK (431), and Sweden (291).
Nestlé leads the way among manufacturers with the most patents published (744), followed by Roquette Frères (324), DSM-Firmenich (221), Unilever (210), and Givaudan (142).
Dr David Hunt, research support manager at GFI Europe, said: “The sharp rise in alternative protein patents – particularly when viewed within the wider context of increases in public funding and academic publications – points to rapid growth in Europe’s research and innovation ecosystem… Innovators are exploring a wide range of technological areas and achieving exciting breakthroughs…To make sure Europe does not fall behind other regions, companies and research organisations should adopt new approaches enabling them to collaborate and commercialise research findings to accelerate innovation.”People routinely cite factors like taste and affordability as the main barriers stopping them from buying plant-based foods… Companies and research organisations need to invest in developing key technologies, such as novel texturization methods, needed to propel plant-based innovation and ensure that these foods become tastier and more affordable.”
Fortunately for vegans, plant-based meat patents dominate the field, overshadowing those related to lab meat. Plant-based patents primarily focus on ingredient optimisation and end-product formulation, with no patents found on crop breeding.
New research has suggested that Germany could create up to a quarter of a million jobs and receive a €65 billion economic boost by championing alternative non-animal proteins. According to a report by Systemiq commissioned by the Good Food Institute, the German government should provide a transparent path to market for companies, including science-based regulatory approvals for new technology and ingredients. The report also suggests that the government should invest an average of €260 million per year to support research and infrastructure development.
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